Finance Business Partner - Cost Accounting

Finance Business Partner (Cost Accounting) 

We are seeking a Finance Business Partner (Cost Accounting) to lead the management accounting function and provide critical financial insights that drive operational efficiency and profitability within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

In this senior role, you will partner closely with Production, Supply Chain, Finance, and cross-functional teams to ensure accurate cost information, effective cost control, and continuous improvement across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities;

Management Accounting

• Oversee all cost accounting activities, including standard costing, inventory valuation, and cost variance analysis.
• Maintain and enhance cost accounting systems to ensure accurate and timely reporting.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual cost reports for leadership review.

Cost Analysis & Reporting

• Analyse production costs, overheads, and key cost drivers.
• Deliver insights on cost trends, product profitability, and operational performance.
• Develop and monitor KPIs focused on cost management and operational efficiency.
• Conduct variance analysis and present findings with actionable recommendations.
• Work collaboratively with department heads to monitor and manage cost performance.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities for cost reduction, process optimisation, and improved data accuracy.
• Lead initiatives to automate and streamline cost accounting and reporting workflows.
• Partner with IT and Finance on system enhancements and efficiency projects.

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing cost accounting team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Drive cross-functional efforts to support company-wide cost optimisation initiatives.

Additional Responsibilities

• Support annual budgets, rolling forecasts, and long-term financial planning.
• Ensure accurate inventory valuation, including standard and actual cost of goods sold.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance.
• Professional accounting qualification (ACA/CPA, CIMA, ACCA).
• 5 years' experience in cost accounting or financial analysis, ideally in a GMP manufacturing or production environment.
• Strong understanding of standard costing, activity-based costing, and variance analysis.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).

Skills & Competencies

• Advanced Excel and strong data analysis skills.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving capabilities.
• High attention to detail with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to turn data into actionable insight.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

For a confidential conversation about the role please apply for the role or contact Owen Clancy at oclancy@sterlingengineeringeu.com By applying to this job post you agree that Sterling Engineering may process your personal data for recruitment purpose.